Usher's strong marriage

Usher says rumours about a rift in his marriage have just made his love even stronger.

The 29-year-old singer - who called off his July wedding to Tameka Foster amid rumours his mother did not approve of the union, before tying the knot a week later - claims battling untrue allegations has made the couple a strong united "team".

He told Essence magazine: "Ours is not a typical love story, but it is a true one. Tameka and I have been fortunate enough to go through the thick of it in the beginning. We've had that opportunity to huddle up as a team, to make sure thatwe're clear and speak as one voice."

Usher - who says the first ceremony was called off because Tameka, 37, was hospitalised with a pregnancy scare - is saddened people chose to question his happiness rather than celebrate it.

He added: "It was like, wow. Getting married and having a child is something that everyone should celebrate. What's happened to us as a culture and a people?"

Tameka admitted even some of her closest friends doubted the couple's relationship.

She said: "Thank God I didn't listen to my girlfriends. Usher was my road dawg. I'd seen him love, and I'd watched him date women who were not worthy of him. He was so sweet, going out of his way to cater to their every need. And I'd see them not even be grateful."

Usher is now looking forward to becoming a father to his unborn son, who is due this autumn.

He said: "Tameka's given me one of the greatest gifts I'll ever have. With a child, now I have purpose. I understand love."